Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A phone holder for holding a cell phone in a vehicle, the phone holder including: a phone enhancer and a cradle attached to the phone enhancer configured to hold a cell phone in a vehicle, the phone enhancer wirelessly connected to the cell phone, the cradle including a triangular hold securement system connected to the cradle, wherein the triangular hold securement system includes a first grab post, a second grab post, and a third grab post, wherein the first grab post and the second grab post are positioned to contact and engage on one of two long sides of the cell phone and the third grab post is positioned to contact and engage on the opposite long side of the cell phone, and further wherein the first grab post and third grab post are connected by a first arm and the second grab posts and the third grab post are connected by a second arm, wherein the first arm and the second arm are connected to a linkage element providing biasing forces to the first arm, the second arm, and the grab posts to secure the cell phone to the cradle; a keypad wirelessly connected to the phone enhancer, wherein the keypad includes a Bluetooth connection for wireless connection of the keypad to the phone enhancer, wherein the keypad receives one or more keypad events and instructions that include one or more of the following: answer the cell phone, hang up the cell phone, pause and play music from the cell phone, adjust the volume of a phone call on the cell phone, adjust the volume of the music on the cell phone, and dial a phone number for a phone call on the cell phone; and a phone enhancer application installed and operated on the cell phone, wherein the phone enhancer application determines a driver of the vehicle when multiple users are in the vehicle.
Vehicle accessory technology for hands-free mobile device operation. This invention addresses the need for a secure and convenient way to hold and interact with a cell phone in a vehicle, while also enhancing the user experience and safety. The system comprises a phone holder designed to securely grip a cell phone within a vehicle. The holder includes a cradle with a unique triangular hold securement system. This system features three grab posts: two positioned on one long side of the cell phone and a third on the opposite long side. These posts are connected by arms, which are linked to a mechanism that provides biasing forces, ensuring the cell phone is held firmly in place. Integrated with the phone holder is a phone enhancer, which is wirelessly connected to the cell phone. A separate keypad is also wirelessly connected to the phone enhancer, utilizing Bluetooth for communication. This keypad allows users to perform various functions on the cell phone, such as answering or hanging up calls, controlling music playback and volume, and dialing numbers. Furthermore, a phone enhancer application runs on the cell phone. This application is capable of identifying the driver of the vehicle, even when multiple users are present, enabling personalized or context-aware functionality.
2. A phone holder according to claim 1 , further including a vehicle mount to secure the phone holder to the inside of the vehicle such that the driver can see the cell phone.
A phone holder is designed to securely position a cell phone within a vehicle, ensuring the driver can easily view the phone while operating the vehicle. The phone holder includes a vehicle mount that attaches to the interior of the vehicle, such as the dashboard, windshield, or air vent, to provide a stable and adjustable mounting position. The holder is configured to hold the phone in a fixed orientation, allowing the driver to see the phone's display without obstructing their view of the road. The vehicle mount may include adjustable components, such as clamps, suction cups, or adhesive pads, to accommodate different vehicle surfaces and ensure a secure fit. The phone holder may also feature a rotating or pivoting mechanism to allow the phone to be repositioned as needed. The design ensures that the phone remains accessible and visible to the driver while minimizing distractions and maintaining safety during vehicle operation.
3. A phone holder according to claim 1 , wherein the phone enhancer includes a Bluetooth connection for wireless connection of the cell phone to the phone enhancer.
A phone holder is designed to securely mount a cell phone in a vehicle, providing enhanced functionality and convenience. The holder includes a phone enhancer that integrates with the cell phone to improve usability while driving. The phone enhancer features a Bluetooth connection, enabling wireless communication between the cell phone and the enhancer. This wireless link allows the enhancer to interact with the phone without requiring physical connections, such as cables or adapters. The Bluetooth functionality may support data transfer, audio streaming, or control signals, enhancing the phone's capabilities while mounted in the holder. The enhancer may also include additional features like a charging interface, a display, or input controls to further assist the user. The phone holder is designed to be adjustable, ensuring compatibility with various phone sizes and secure placement within the vehicle. The Bluetooth connection simplifies setup and reduces clutter, improving the overall user experience. The system ensures that the phone remains accessible and functional while minimizing distractions for the driver.
4. A phone holder according to claim 1 , wherein the phone enhancer transforms the keypad events and instructions to a Bluetooth event and then sends the keypad events and instructions to the cell phone.
A phone holder is designed to enhance the functionality of a cell phone by transforming keypad events and instructions into Bluetooth events. The holder includes a phone enhancer that interfaces with the cell phone, allowing it to process and relay input commands. The enhancer converts physical keypad inputs, such as button presses, into Bluetooth-compatible signals that the cell phone can interpret. This enables the holder to act as an external input device, expanding the phone's usability beyond its built-in touchscreen or physical buttons. The system ensures seamless communication between the holder and the phone, maintaining responsiveness and accuracy in command execution. The holder may also include additional features, such as a mounting mechanism to secure the phone in place, ensuring stability during use. The transformation of keypad events into Bluetooth signals allows for wireless operation, reducing clutter and improving user convenience. This design is particularly useful for scenarios where direct touch input is impractical, such as while driving or in environments where hands-free operation is preferred. The phone enhancer may also support additional instructions, such as volume control or media playback commands, further enhancing the phone's functionality. The system ensures compatibility with standard Bluetooth protocols, ensuring broad applicability across different cell phone models. The holder may also include power management features to optimize battery life, ensuring long-term usability.
5. A phone holder according to claim 1 , wherein the phone enhancer retains an order of pairing of cell phones and a least recently used connection list, wherein the least recently used connection list is a list of most recently connected cell phone to least recently connected cell phone.
A phone holder system includes a phone enhancer that manages connections between multiple cell phones and a vehicle audio system. The phone enhancer retains the order in which cell phones are paired, ensuring that the most recently connected device is prioritized for audio streaming or other functions. It also maintains a least recently used (LRU) connection list, which tracks cell phones from the most recently connected to the least recently connected. This allows the system to efficiently manage multiple devices, ensuring seamless transitions between them based on usage patterns. The phone enhancer may also include features such as automatic reconnection, priority-based audio routing, and user interface controls to simplify device management. The system is designed to enhance user experience by reducing manual intervention and improving connectivity reliability in vehicles.
6. A phone holder according to claim 5 , wherein when a cell phone has a valid connection with the phone enhancer, the phone enhancer places an identification associated with the cell phone in the least recently used connection list to the most recently connected cell phone.
A phone holder is designed to manage and prioritize connections between a cell phone and a phone enhancer. The phone holder includes a connection management system that tracks and organizes the connection history of multiple cell phones. When a cell phone establishes a valid connection with the phone enhancer, the connection management system updates a prioritized list of connected devices. This list is organized from the least recently used connection to the most recently connected cell phone, ensuring that the most recent connection is prioritized. The system dynamically adjusts the list as new connections are made, allowing the phone enhancer to efficiently manage and prioritize interactions with multiple cell phones. This approach optimizes resource allocation and improves the user experience by ensuring that the most recently connected device receives priority access to the phone enhancer's features and functions. The phone holder may also include additional features, such as physical mounting mechanisms or power management systems, to enhance usability and functionality.
7. A phone holder according to claim 1 , wherein when the vehicle has multiple users whose cell phone have previously connected to the phone enhancer, the phone enhancer application starts when the cell phone detects the phone enhancer.
A phone holder system for vehicles includes a phone enhancer that connects to a cell phone via a wireless connection, such as Bluetooth. The phone enhancer provides enhanced audio output, such as through a speaker system, and may also include additional features like charging capabilities. The phone holder securely mounts the cell phone in a vehicle, ensuring proper positioning for optimal functionality. When multiple users with previously connected cell phones enter the vehicle, the phone enhancer application automatically starts on the cell phone upon detecting the phone enhancer. This allows seamless integration and quick access to enhanced audio features without manual setup. The system ensures that each user's device is recognized and configured for optimal performance, enhancing convenience and usability. The phone holder may also include adjustable mounting mechanisms to accommodate different phone sizes and orientations, ensuring compatibility across various devices. The automatic activation of the phone enhancer application streamlines the user experience, reducing the need for manual intervention and improving overall efficiency.
8. A phone holder according to claim 7 , wherein the phone enhancer application communicates with the phone enhancer and displays in a list an identification of the other cell phones connected the phone enhancer.
A phone holder is designed to securely mount a smartphone while enhancing its functionality through an external device called a phone enhancer. The phone enhancer connects to multiple smartphones via wireless communication, such as Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, and provides additional features like extended battery life, improved audio output, or expanded connectivity options. The phone holder is adjustable to accommodate different phone sizes and orientations, ensuring stability during use. The phone enhancer application, installed on the connected smartphones, facilitates communication between the phones and the enhancer. This application displays a list of all other smartphones currently connected to the phone enhancer, allowing users to manage connections and share data seamlessly. The system ensures efficient resource sharing and synchronization among multiple devices, improving user experience and productivity. The phone holder and enhancer work together to provide a versatile and integrated solution for enhancing smartphone capabilities in various environments.
9. A phone holder according to claim 1 , wherein when the vehicle has multiple users whose cell phone have previously connected to the phone enhancer, the phone enhancer does not allow an audio service or a keypad service until a driver of the vehicle is determined.
A phone holder for vehicles includes a phone enhancer that connects to multiple users' cell phones. The phone enhancer provides audio and keypad services to the connected phones. However, when multiple users with previously connected phones are present, the phone enhancer restricts audio and keypad services until the driver of the vehicle is identified. This ensures that only the driver can access these services, enhancing safety by preventing non-drivers from using phone functions that could distract the driver. The phone enhancer may use various methods to determine the driver, such as proximity sensing, user input, or vehicle system integration. Once the driver is identified, the phone enhancer enables audio services (e.g., calls, media playback) and keypad services (e.g., dialing, texting) for the driver's phone while restricting these functions for other connected phones. The system may also include a mounting mechanism to securely hold the phone in the vehicle. This design prevents unauthorized or unsafe phone usage by non-drivers, promoting safer driving conditions.
10. A phone holder according to claim 1 , wherein the phone enhancer includes a power charger adapter connection and a USB connector connection.
A phone holder is designed to securely mount a mobile device, such as a smartphone, to a surface like a car dashboard or desk. The holder includes a phone enhancer that integrates additional functionality. This enhancer features a power charger adapter connection, allowing the holder to supply electrical power to the mounted device, and a USB connector connection, enabling data transfer or additional power delivery. The holder may also include a base with a mounting mechanism, such as a suction cup or adhesive strip, to attach to the desired surface. The phone enhancer may further include a pivoting or adjustable arm to position the device at various angles for optimal viewing. The design ensures stable support while providing convenient access to charging and data connectivity without requiring separate cables or adapters. This integration simplifies the setup and reduces clutter, enhancing user convenience. The holder may also include a locking mechanism to secure the device in place, preventing accidental dislodgment during use. The overall system combines physical support with integrated electronic functionality, addressing the need for a compact, multifunctional mounting solution for mobile devices.
11. A mobile device holder for holding a mobile device in a vehicle, the mobile device holder including: a phone enhancer and a cradle attached to the phone enhancer configured to hold a mobile device in a vehicle, the phone enhancer wirelessly connected to the mobile device, wherein the phone enhancer includes a Bluetooth connection for wireless connection of the mobile device to the phone enhancer, the cradle including a triangular hold securement system connected to the cradle, wherein the triangular hold securement system includes a first grab post, a second grab post, and a third grab post, wherein the first grab post and the second grab post are positioned to contact and engage on one of two long sides of the mobile device and the third grab post is positioned to contact and engage on the opposite long side of the mobile device, and further wherein the first grab post and third grab post are connected by a first arm and the second grab posts and the third grab post are connected by a second arm, wherein the first arm and the second arm are connected to a linkage element providing biasing forces to the first arm, the second arm, and the grab posts to secure the mobile device to the cradle; a keypad wirelessly connected to the phone enhancer, wherein the keypad includes a Bluetooth connection for wireless connection of the keypad to the phone enhancer, wherein the keypad receives one or more keypad events and instructions that include one or more of the following: answer the mobile device, hang up the mobile device, pause and play music from the mobile device, adjust the volume of a phone call on the mobile device, adjust the volume of the music on the mobile device, and dial a phone number for a phone call on the mobile device; and a phone enhancer application installed and operated on the mobile device, wherein the phone enhancer application determines a driver of the vehicle when multiple users are in the vehicle, wherein when the vehicle has multiple users whose mobile device have previously connected to the phone enhancer, the phone enhancer application starts when the mobile device detects the phone enhancer, and further wherein the phone enhancer retains an order of pairing of cell phones and a least recently used connection list, wherein the least recently used connection list is a list of most recently connected mobile devices to least recently connected mobile devices.
This invention relates to a mobile device holder for vehicles that enhances functionality and security for mobile devices. The holder includes a cradle with a triangular hold securement system to firmly grip the device. The system has three grab posts: two on one long side of the device and one on the opposite side, connected by arms and a linkage element that applies biasing forces to secure the device in place. The holder also includes a phone enhancer wirelessly connected to the mobile device via Bluetooth, enabling hands-free control. A separate keypad, also Bluetooth-connected, allows users to answer or end calls, play or pause music, adjust volume, and dial numbers. The system includes a phone enhancer application that identifies the driver when multiple users are present, prioritizing connections based on pairing order and a least recently used list. This ensures seamless integration and personalized control for the driver.
12. A mobile device holder according to claim 11 , further including a vehicle mount to secure the phone holder to the inside of the vehicle such that the driver can see the mobile device.
A mobile device holder is designed to securely hold a mobile device, such as a smartphone, in a vehicle to provide visibility to the driver. The holder includes a clamping mechanism to grip the mobile device, ensuring stability during vehicle movement. The device holder is adjustable, allowing the mobile device to be positioned at various angles for optimal viewing. Additionally, the holder includes a vehicle mount that attaches to the inside of the vehicle, such as the dashboard, windshield, or air vent, to securely position the mobile device within the driver's line of sight. The mount may feature a swivel or pivot mechanism to further adjust the orientation of the mobile device. The holder is designed to prevent the mobile device from slipping or detaching during driving, ensuring safe and hands-free operation. The system may also include a locking mechanism to prevent unauthorized removal of the mobile device. The holder is compatible with various mobile device sizes and models, providing a universal solution for vehicle-mounted mobile device use. The design prioritizes ease of installation and adjustment while maintaining a secure hold on the device.
13. A mobile device holder according to claim 11 , wherein the phone enhancer transforms the keypad events and instructions to a Bluetooth event and then sends the keypad events and instructions to the mobile device.
A mobile device holder is designed to securely hold a mobile device while enhancing its functionality. The holder includes a phone enhancer that interfaces with the mobile device, allowing for the transformation of keypad events and instructions into Bluetooth events. These transformed events are then transmitted wirelessly to the mobile device via Bluetooth. The phone enhancer acts as an intermediary, converting physical keypad inputs into a format compatible with the mobile device's Bluetooth communication protocol. This enables users to interact with the mobile device using external keypad inputs, improving usability in scenarios where direct touchscreen interaction is impractical or inconvenient. The holder ensures stable positioning of the mobile device while the phone enhancer facilitates seamless communication between the keypad and the device, enhancing user experience and accessibility. The system is particularly useful in automotive or industrial environments where hands-free operation is required. The phone enhancer may also include additional processing capabilities to optimize the transmission of keypad events, ensuring reliable and efficient communication with the mobile device.
14. A mobile device holder according to claim 11 , wherein when a mobile device has a valid connection with the phone enhancer, the phone enhancer places an identification associated with the mobile device in the least recently used connection list to the most recently connected mobile device.
A mobile device holder is designed to securely hold a mobile device and enhance its functionality through a connected phone enhancer. The holder includes a mounting mechanism to attach to a vehicle or other surface, a cradle to hold the mobile device, and a phone enhancer that provides additional features such as extended battery life, improved signal reception, or enhanced audio capabilities. The phone enhancer establishes a wireless or wired connection with the mobile device to enable these features. When a mobile device connects to the phone enhancer, the enhancer tracks connection history by maintaining a list of connected devices. This list prioritizes devices based on usage, with the most recently connected device placed at the top of the list. If a mobile device has a valid connection with the phone enhancer, the enhancer updates the connection list by moving the device's identification from the least recently used position to the most recently connected position. This ensures that frequently used devices are prioritized for quick reconnection and optimized performance. The system helps streamline device management and enhances user experience by reducing setup time for frequently used devices.
15. A mobile device holder according to claim 11 , wherein the phone enhancer application communicates with the phone enhancer and displays in a list an identification of the other mobile devices connected the phone enhancer.
A mobile device holder is designed to securely mount a mobile device, such as a smartphone, to a surface like a vehicle dashboard or desk. The holder includes a phone enhancer, which is an electronic module that connects to the mobile device via a wired or wireless interface. The phone enhancer enhances the mobile device's functionality by providing additional features, such as extended battery life, improved signal reception, or additional connectivity options. The phone enhancer application, installed on the mobile device, communicates with the phone enhancer to manage its settings and operations. One key feature is that the application displays a list of other mobile devices that are currently connected to the phone enhancer. This allows the user to monitor and manage multiple devices linked to the same enhancer, ensuring seamless connectivity and control. The application may also provide options to prioritize devices, adjust settings, or troubleshoot connection issues. This system is particularly useful in scenarios where multiple users or devices need to interact with the same phone enhancer, such as in shared workspaces or vehicles. The holder and enhancer combination ensures stable mounting and enhanced performance for the connected mobile devices.
16. A mobile device holder according to claim 11 , wherein when the vehicle has multiple users whose mobile device have previously connected to the phone enhancer, the phone enhancer does not allow an audio service or a keypad service until a driver of the vehicle is determined.
A mobile device holder is designed for use in vehicles to securely hold and enhance the functionality of a mobile device, such as a smartphone. The holder connects to the mobile device and provides additional features, including audio and keypad services, to improve usability while driving. A key challenge in multi-user environments is ensuring that only the driver can access certain services to prevent misuse or distraction by passengers. The invention addresses this by incorporating a driver determination mechanism. When multiple users have previously connected their mobile devices to the phone enhancer, the system restricts audio and keypad services until it confirms the driver's identity. This prevents unauthorized access to critical functions, enhancing safety by ensuring only the driver can control these services. The holder may include sensors, authentication methods, or other detection mechanisms to identify the driver, ensuring proper functionality is enabled only when the correct user is in control. This solution improves vehicle safety by limiting access to essential mobile device features to the driver alone.
17. A mobile device holder according to claim 11 , wherein the phone enhancer includes a power charger adapter connection and a USB connector connection.
A mobile device holder is designed to securely hold a mobile device, such as a smartphone or tablet, in a fixed position while providing additional functionality. The holder includes a phone enhancer that integrates a power charger adapter connection and a USB connector connection. The power charger adapter connection allows the mobile device to be charged while mounted, ensuring continuous power supply during use. The USB connector connection enables data transfer or additional power delivery, enhancing the device's usability. The holder may also include a mounting mechanism, such as a clamp or adhesive base, to attach to a surface like a car dashboard, desk, or vehicle windshield. The phone enhancer may further include a protective casing or alignment features to ensure proper positioning and stability of the mobile device. This design improves convenience by combining device mounting with charging and connectivity in a single unit, reducing clutter and enhancing functionality. The holder is particularly useful in environments where hands-free operation and power access are essential, such as in vehicles or workstations.
18. A mobile device holder for holding a mobile device in a vehicle, the mobile device holder including: a phone enhancer and a cradle attached to the phone enhancer configured to hold a mobile device in a vehicle, the phone enhancer wirelessly connected to the mobile device, wherein the phone enhancer includes a Bluetooth connection for wireless connection of the mobile device to the phone enhancer, the cradle including a triangular hold securement system connected to the cradle, wherein the triangular hold securement system includes a first grab post, a second grab post, and a third grab post, wherein the first grab post and the second grab post are positioned to contact and engage on one of two long sides of the mobile device and the third grab post is positioned to contact and engage on the opposite long side of the mobile device, and further wherein the first grab post and third grab post are connected by a first arm and the second grab posts and the third grab post are connected by a second arm, wherein the first arm and the second arm are connected to a linkage element providing biasing forces to the first arm, the second arm, and the grab posts to secure the mobile device to the cradle; a keypad wirelessly connected to the phone enhancer, wherein the keypad includes a Bluetooth connection for wireless connection of the keypad to the phone enhancer, wherein the keypad receives one or more keypad events and instructions that include one or more of the following: answer the mobile device, hang up the mobile device, pause and play music from the mobile device, adjust the volume of a phone call on the mobile device, adjust the volume of the music on the mobile device, and dial a phone number for a phone call on the mobile device; and a phone enhancer application installed and operated on the mobile device, wherein the phone enhancer application determines a driver of the vehicle when multiple users are in the vehicle, wherein the phone enhancer application communicates with the phone enhancer and displays in a list an identification of the other mobile devices connected the phone enhancer, wherein when the vehicle has multiple users whose mobile device have previously connected to the phone enhancer, the phone enhancer application starts when the mobile device detects the phone enhancer, and wherein when the vehicle has multiple users whose mobile device have previously connected to the phone enhancer, the phone enhancer does not allow an audio service or a keypad service until a driver of the vehicle is determined.
This invention relates to a mobile device holder for vehicles that enhances functionality and security for mobile devices. The holder includes a cradle with a triangular hold securement system to firmly grip the device, featuring three grab posts that engage the device's long sides. The first and second grab posts contact one side, while the third post contacts the opposite side, with arms and a linkage element applying biasing forces to secure the device. The holder also includes a phone enhancer wirelessly connected to the device via Bluetooth, enabling hands-free control. A separate keypad, also Bluetooth-connected, allows users to answer calls, hang up, play/pause music, adjust volume, and dial numbers. The system includes a phone enhancer application that identifies the driver when multiple users are present, preventing unauthorized access to audio or keypad services until the driver is confirmed. The application lists connected devices and automatically starts when a previously connected device is detected. This invention improves device security, usability, and integration in vehicles.
19. A mobile device holder according to claim 18 , wherein the phone enhancer retains an order of pairing of cell phones and a least recently used connection list, wherein the least recently used connection list is a list of most recently connected mobile devices to least recently connected mobile devices and when a mobile device has a valid connection with the phone enhancer, the phone enhancer places an identification associated with the mobile device in the least recently used connection list to the most recently connected mobile device.
A mobile device holder system includes a phone enhancer that manages connections between multiple mobile devices and a docking station. The phone enhancer maintains a pairing order of connected cell phones and a least recently used (LRU) connection list. The LRU list ranks mobile devices from most recently connected to least recently connected. When a mobile device establishes a valid connection with the phone enhancer, its identification is moved to the top of the LRU list, indicating it is the most recently connected device. This system ensures efficient tracking of connection history, prioritizing recently used devices for seamless pairing and data transfer. The holder may include a docking station with a base and a support structure to hold the mobile devices, while the phone enhancer facilitates communication between the devices and the docking station. The system may also support wireless charging and data synchronization, enhancing usability for multiple users. The LRU mechanism optimizes performance by dynamically updating connection priorities based on usage patterns.
20. A mobile device holder according to claim 18 , wherein the phone enhancer includes a power charger adapter connection and a USB connector connection.
A mobile device holder is designed to securely mount a mobile device, such as a smartphone or tablet, to a surface, such as a vehicle dashboard or windshield. The holder includes a phone enhancer that provides additional functionality beyond basic mounting. The phone enhancer includes a power charger adapter connection, allowing the mobile device to be charged while mounted, and a USB connector connection, enabling data transfer or additional power delivery. The holder may also feature adjustable arms or clamps to accommodate different device sizes and orientations. The design ensures stability and easy attachment/detachment of the device while providing integrated power and connectivity options. This solution addresses the need for a versatile, functional mounting system that enhances usability and convenience for mobile device users in vehicles or other environments.
Unknown
January 2, 2018
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